Pool Safety Guide
Pool Safety Guide
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Having a backyard swimming pool can be an enjoyable family activity, but
to insure the safety of everyone who uses the pool there are important
measures that should not be overlooked. First, there should be at least
1.2 metre high fence or wall that completely surrounds the pool area
with self-closing and self-latching gates. This will insure that no one
will use the pool without your knowledge. All pool users should know how
to swim and if there are inexperienced swimmers, they should be
accompanied by an experienced swimmer. Keep rescue equipment and a phone
by the pool and do not allow glass containers to be used in the pool
area. Electrical devices such as radios and CD players should be kept
away from the pool area and wet surfaces. Do not swim during electrical
storms, if you are tired, have just finished eating or have had too much
alcohol. Before diving, be sure to check the depth of the water and
never dive into an above ground pool. One of the most potentially dangerous areas of a pool is around pool filters or drains so you should have your pool regularly checked for entanglement or entrapment hazards. The location of the electrical cut-off switch should be plainly marked so if someone should be caught against a drain, the pump can be cut off immediately. A Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) is a device that will automatically shut off a pump if a blockage is detected. Another area of concern relating to pool safety is the transmission and prevention of diseases in swimming pools as germs from people or water from unsafe water supplies can contaminate swimming pools. Disease prevention should be part of any pool safety program just like prevention of drowning or injuries. Pool water should be disinfected with strong oxidizing agents and disinfectants, which will contribute to the safety and health of pool users. www.poolsafety.com.au provides industry standards and guidelines as well as legislation regarding safety for pools in Australia. |
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